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Academic Sponsorship by UVA

The University of Virginia (UVA), consistently ranked as one of the top research universities in the U.S., is the academic sponsor for the iXperience education abroad program in Cape Town, South Africa, Lisbon, Portugal, and Berlin, Germany. As the accredited school of record for iXperience, UVA oversees the academic program. iXperience courses and instructors have been reviewed and approved by the corresponding academic departments and the College of Arts and Sciences at UVA. All participants are enrolled in UVA courses during their term of study, are visiting UVA students for the duration of the program, will receive a UVA transcript upon completion, and may be eligible to earn transferable credit.

This means a few things for iX students. First, you'll be granted a transcript from UVA as a visiting student, which you may be able to transfer to your home institution. Each university's process is different, so you'll have to speak to your own study abroad office to figure out the process (unless, of course, you go to UVA).

Second, you may now be eligible for financial aid from your university or the government to attend iX. Again, the process for this is different for each university, so please check with your study abroad office for how this might work.

Third, it means iX has new eligibility requirements for participation. We'll give you much more information about your eligibility throughout your application process, and work with you to secure the necessary documentation. If you have questions about your eligibility, please contact us using the chat bubble at the bottom right of the screen.

Please note that academic credits are not available in Tel Aviv and the Israeli program has no affiliation with the University of Virginia.

FAQs

Your questions, answered.

General

What is iXperience?

iXperience is a summer career accelerator that operates around the world. iX caters to top students from universities around the world to teach practical, in-demand skills in a unique and immersive learning environment.

As of 2018, iXperience is academically sponsored by the University of Virginia (UVA). That means that at some of our locations students can earn credit through UVA for completing iX courses.

Please note that academic credits are not available in Tel Aviv and the Israeli program has no affiliation with the University of Virginia.

But iX offers more than just an education. Our programs are designed to be all-encompassing experiences with exceptional operations, including housing and cultural activities. Our goal is to help our students become self-motivated citizens of the world. Learn more about us here.

"iX was an opportunity to grow and discover—to explore a dynamic and captivating country, develop practical technical skills, and leave behind the comfort of the familiar to join a diverse assembly of scholars, artists, and adventurers at the edge of the world."

— Alec Ortiz, Stanford, iX '15

"This program has been the most impactful developmental step in my young career and I will treasure it for life. Before coming here I had a vague idea of what management consulting was, and when I leave I am going to have not only learned what it was, but also used it in multiple business settings. I have made friendships that will last a lifetime and a professional network of people that are going to do great things in the upcoming years."

— David Maimone, James Madison University, iX '17

What differentiates iXperience from other study abroad programs?

The main reason many of our students—especially freshmen and sophomores—choose iXperience each year is because we are the only summer study abroad program that combines the 3 most important aspects of career acceleration: intensive learning, hands-on professional experience, and cultural and personal exploration. You'll gain proficiency in a new, in-demand skill, as well as work experience at an influential company with clear, impactful, and measurable deliverables that you can show future employers. On top of this, you may be able to earn college credit, gain a new network of over 1000 top students from around the world, and a changed perspective from immersing yourself in one of the most culturally rich and diverse cities on earth.

It is the union of the course, internship, community, and travel aspects that distinguishes us from other summer programs. But you'll find that each of the individual components is, in itself, of an extremely high caliber. Our educational approach is vastly different to traditional tertiary institutions, as it is very hands-on, intensive, and equips you with skills that are extremely sought out by leading and influential local and global companies.

Check out what previous students had to say about the program:

What is Academic Sponsorship?

The University of Virginia (UVA), consistently ranked as one of the top research universities in the U.S., is the academic sponsor for the iXperience education abroad program in Cape Town, South Africa, Lisbon, Portugal, and Berlin, Germany.

As the accredited school of record for iXperience, UVA oversees the academic program and issues a transcript for coursework. iXperience courses and instructors have been reviewed and approved by the corresponding academic departments and the College of Arts and Sciences at UVA. All participants are enrolled in UVA courses during their term of study, are visiting UVA students for the duration of the program, will receive a UVA transcript upon completion, and may be eligible to earn transferable credit.

Please note that academic credits are not available in Tel Aviv and the Israeli program has no affiliation with the University of Virginia.

How does credit transfer work?

Upon completion of iXperience, you'll be granted a transcript from UVA as a visiting student, which you may be able to transfer to your home institution. Each university's process is different, so you'll have to speak to your own study abroad office to figure out the process (unless, of course, you go to UVA).

Academic Sponsorship also means that you may be eligible for financial aid from your university or the government to attend iX. Again, the process for this is different for each university, so please check with your study abroad office for how this might work.

Where can I find the University of Virginia course code for my course selection?

You can locate the code related to your course in the table below. If you need more syllabus related info, reach out to us using the chat bubble below.

Please note that academic credits are not available in Tel Aviv, that the below course codes are not applicable to courses offered in Tel Aviv, and the Israeli program has no affiliation with the University of Virginia.

Formal Course Name

Course Code

Cape Town and South Africa in Global Context

GSGS 2559

Liberal Arts and Work – Data Science

LASE 3559

Liberal Arts and Work – Digital Design

LASE 3559

Liberal Arts and Work – Full Stack Coding

LASE 3559

Liberal Arts and Work – Investment Finance

LASE 3559

Liberal Arts and Work – Management Consulting

LASE 3559

Liberal Arts and Work – Product Management

LASE 3559

How can I contact iX alumni to ask more questions?

We have an extensive network of over 1000 alumni worldwide. To find an alum on your campus, visit our alumni page.
You can also reach out to us
if you'd like us to make an introduction!

What can I put on my resume after completing iXperience?

By the end of your summer at iXperience, you will have gained valuable, in-demand skills perfectly suited to significantly enhance any resume. Whether your chosen course is supplementary to your degree or very different from it, we have no doubt it will serve to add to your employability.

On top of this, your internship will signal to prospective employers that you have gone beyond the classroom and learned to apply your new skills in the real world.

We are committed to helping you succeed, and we will—as we have done with many of our past students—continue to give you advice and help you along your career path long after you've graduated iX.

Have iX students been successful in their careers after the program?

iXperience is the only summer study-abroad program that combines the three most important aspects of career acceleration: intensive learning, hands-on professional experience, and cultural and personal exploration.

Read about how iX Alumni are going on to work at some of the world's top companies—including Facebook, Microsoft, Bain, Accenture and McKinsey—and how their experience abroad gave them a significant edge in their careers:

After iX, you'll come away with proficiency in a new, in-demand skill. You'll have work experience at a South African company with clear, impactful and measurable deliverables that you can show future employers. You'll have integrated yourself into a growing, international network of 1000+ talented students. And, you'll have enhanced your perspective of the world from immersing yourself into one of the most culturally rich and diverse cities on Earth.

Program-specific information

What does the iX Immerse program cost?

We're committed to making iX as accessible as possible to everyone, and
offer up to 30% in need-based financial aid. Learn more on
our tuition and aid page.

What's included?

The program fee includes ten weeks of tuition and a local or international internship:

4 week UVA Liberal Arts course

2 week iX course instruction

4 week iX course-internship blend

Classes will be taught by a head instructor and two teaching assistants. You will also receive personalized coaching, awesome accommodation, educational excursions, weekend excursions, international medical and emergency insurance for the duration of the program, and airport pickup and dropoff. You will have to cover your airfare, food, and any extra excursions or social outings that you plan independently of the program.

Upon completion of the iX Immerse program you will earn 9 – 10 academic credits from the University of Virginia.

"It cost a lot of money to come here and it was a tough choice financially—but that's inevitable with a program of this caliber. To do everything that I did, and learn all that I learned... My parents and I agree that this program is an incredible deal."

— Cameron Cross, UVA '16, iX '14

What is the billable and approximate non-billable cost breakdown of iX Immerse?

Billable items (i.e. part of the iXperience program fee):

Tuition: $5260

Program Fees: $7800

Non-Refundable Program Fee: $750

Compulsory Medical Insurance: $90

Billable subtotal: $13990

Non-billable estimates (i.e. expenses you may incur outside of the program fees):

Airfare: $1000

Meals: $2500

Personal expenses: $750

Other: $250

Local Transportation: $420

What are the program dates?

iX Immerse runs for 10 weeks, across 1 session, from June 2 - August 10, 2019 in Cape Town.

What is a typical day's schedule?

The first 4 weeks of the iX Immerse program features an expansive UVA Liberal Arts course aimed to introduce you to South Africa and broaden your perspective on a wide range of political, social, historical, cultural, and environmental topics. You will attend class from Monday to Friday and might go on excursions specific to what you learn in class.

Upon completion of the UVA Liberal Arts course students will move into a 6 week iX course-internship blend. Class is for approximately two to four hours each weekday and because the program is meant to be intense, students are assigned 3-5 hours of homework. Outside of class (when done with homework of course!) students are encouraged to explore as much as possible, whether that's with sunrise oceanside runs, exploring the cobblestone streets, or taking the metro (or Uber) to nearby neighborhoods.

During the last 4 weeks students will enter the four weeks internship/learning phase. Most days will be spent at the internship companies, where students will work on their projects. Students will also be spending time back in the classroom, receiving support from their teaching team to help ensure that they’re able to deliver the best results and build on their growing body of skills and knowledge.

What are some of the iXperience activities I can look forward to in Cape Town?

Our excursions are city specific and designed so that students can experience the diverse culture the city and country has to offer. Think history, art, natural wonders, food, and the local music scene.

The iX Immerse program will also include specially designed additional excursions that are not available as part of the iX Accelerate program in our other cities.

Do I have to go on the activities?

None of the planned weekend excursions are mandatory however, they are included in the program fee. The weekends are yours, and while we have trips and events planned for you, you are not required to attend them.

As part of the Global Studies course you might be required to go on mandatory course related excursions during the first 2 weeks of iX Immerse.

What does the iX Accelerate program cost?

$9950

We're committed to making iX as accessible as possible to everyone, and
offer up to 30% in need-based financial aid. Learn more on
our tuition and aid page.

What's included?

The program fee includes six weeks of tuition and a local or international internship:

2 week iX course class instruction

4 week iX course-internship blend

Classes will be taught by a head instructor and two teaching assistants. You will also receive personalized coaching, awesome accommodation, weekend excursions, international medical and emergency insurance for the duration of the program, and airport pickup and dropoff. You will have to cover your airfare, food, and any extra excursions or social outings that you plan independently of the program.

Upon completion of the iX Accelerate program in Cape Town, Lisbon, or Berlin you will earn 6 academic credits from the University of Virginia. Please note that academic credits are not available in Tel Aviv and the Israeli program has no affiliation with the University of Virginia.

"Considering the accommodation, the quality of the program and, most importantly, the life lessons that I learned, I can confidently say iXperience wasn’t a "cost", but rather an "investment" for my life; I gained invaluable technical skills, work experience, self-confidence, and motivation."

— Yunny Chung, Brown '17, iX '14

What is the billable and approximate non-billable cost breakdown of iX Accelerate?

Billable items (i.e. part of the iXperience program fee):

Tuition: $4275

Program Fees: $4875

Non-Refundable Program Fee: $750

Compulsory Medical Insurance (Lisbon, Berlin, and Cape Town): $50

Billable subtotal: $9950

Non-billable estimates (i.e. expenses you may incur outside of the program fees):

Airfare: $1000

Meals: $1500

Personal expenses: $450

Other: $150

Local Transportation: $250

What are the program dates?

iX Accelerate program dates depend on the city you choose to attend.

City

Session 1

Session 2

Cape Town

Not available

June 30 - August 10, 2019

Lisbon

May 26 - July 6, 2019

July 7 - August 17, 2019

Berlin

May 26 - July 6, 2019

July 7 - August 17, 2019

Tel Aviv

May 24 - July 5, 2019

Not available

What is a typical day's schedule?

During the first 2 weeks of the program, students have class from Monday to Friday. Class is for approximately three to four hours each day and because the program is meant to be intense, students are assigned 3-5 hours of homework. Outside of class (when done with homework of course!) students are encouraged to explore as much as possible, whether that's with sunrise oceanside runs, exploring the cobblestone streets, or taking the metro (or Uber) to nearby neighborhoods.

Following the first two weeks of classroom learning, students will enter the four weeks internship/learning phase. Most days will be spent at the internship companies, where students will work on their projects. Students will also be spending time back in the classroom, receiving support from their teaching team to help ensure that they’re able to deliver the best results and build on their growing body of skills and knowledge.

What are some of the iXperience activities I can look forward to?

Our excursions are city specific and designed so that students can experience the diverse culture the city and country has to offer. Think history, art, natural wonders, food, and the local music scene.

Do I have to go on the activities?

None of the planned excursions are mandatory however, they are included in the program fee. The weekends are yours, and while we have trips and events planned for you, you are not required to attend them.

The Application & Eligibility

How do I apply to iXperience?

You can start your application by clicking the "Apply" button at the top of your screen. During the application, you’ll have the opportunity to tell us more about yourself and choose the unique course + internship combination you would like to apply for. You can change your mind at a later stage (depending on the amount of open spots in other courses), so don’t feel like your application is binding.

What is the deadline to apply?

We have a number of admissions deadlines throughout the year and accept a limited number of students periodically at each deadline date until specific classes are full.

Applications for 2019 are closed. Early applications for iXperience 2020 open soon. Please check back here in a few weeeks.

Is there an application fee?

Nope! It's completely free to apply.

What is the age limit for the program?

Due to the nature of our program, which mostly caters to university students, we consider applications from people between 18 and 26 years of age.

​As a rule of thumb, 60% of the program is composed of freshmen and sophomores, with the remaining 40% comprising juniors, seniors, MBAs and the like.

Can I apply if I'm from a university outside the US?

Absolutely! Our program is open to students from all around the world. While the majority of our students are from the States, we've received applications from students all over, including Turkey, Brazil, Singapore, Canada and India.

The global network you build while you're here is integral to the long-term success of the program. Surrounding yourself with other like-minded, motivated young people is what drives you towards achieving your personal goals long after you've left, and gives you a great foundation of contacts to build your career on.

How do I know what course to choose?

You’re not alone. Many of our students have a hard time choosing between their passions and interests, vs something they’re already exposed to or studying. We'd recommend thinking about it this way: what would you not have the opportunity to learn at university otherwise? If you had six – ten weeks to fully dedicate yourself to something, what would that be? This advice is directly from our VP of Education, so you are in very capable hands.

We have career coaches at hand, ready to set up a call with you, guide you through the process, and answer your questions. Reach out using the chat bubble in the bottom right corner of your screen.

Should I apply earlier rather than later?

In a nutshell, an early application means you receive your admissions decision earlier, and have a better chance at being accepted to your first course and/or city choice.

We recommend applying earlier rather than later as admissions are more competitive in later admissions cycles due to increasingly limited placement in the program.

What kind of questions are in the application?

The point of the written application is to help us understand who you are. The questions we ask have been carefully crafted to easily bring across to us who you as a person. Aside from the basic profile and academic information, you'll also answer a few short essay questions that will give us insight into your character. Once you have completed your written application, we might reach out to you to set up a telephonic interview.

Is there a GPA cut-off?

Yes. Your GPA needs to be above 2.75 to be considered for an iXperience program.

We use your GPA to make sure you will be able to keep up with the high standards of the iX classroom. However, 90% of the application process is dedicated to getting to know you as a person. Acceptance is largely based on who you are, not on how you do in tests and exams.

How do I secure my spot?

If you're accepted, your spot in the class is only secured once you’ve made your deposit payment. Please note, if you are granted a deposit extension, this does not mean your spot is secured, but only that you have been given an extension. Once a class is full, students accepted into that class will not be able to pay deposits.

Unfortunately, you can't use any iX-granted financial aid or scholarships to pay the deposit.

Will I need travel medical insurance?

International medical and emergency insurance is included in the overall program cost, organized by iXperience, and compulsory for all students attending the program. We will give you more details around what exactly your insurance covers if you are admitted to the program.

I'm a local student, can I still apply?

Yes! Every year we welcome students from all around the world, including from the cities of our programs. We also offer local tuition for students who won't need accommodation. Please get in touch with us to discuss your eligibility requirements.

The Class

Who will I be taught by?

We have a rigorous selection process for our instructors and teaching assistants and thus our teaching staff will
not be finalized until a month or two before the program starts.

To get an idea of the types of teachers you will have, watch the video below and then read some of the blog posts
that follow.

The teachers who deliver the courses differ from year to year, and vary in their academic levels. However, all
our teachers have two things in common: they are experts in their industries, and are inspiring mentors with a
passion for their field. We place a strong emphasis on hiring the right teachers.

Check out this
blog post written for Salman Ansari by his '14 coding class.

"A common saying about teaching is that 'students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.' They showed they cared through their actions and effort rarely taking any free time for themselves
during the day. Outside of class, without fail, they were spending time reviewing resumes, practice
interviewing, or just grabbing coffee with students. I feel so much more confident about my career choice
out of college and my ability to achieve that career because of them."

— Dipak Kumar on the iX '17 Management Consulting teaching team

"At iXperience, my Product Management course taught me more than the practical nuances of Business Model Canvases, Roadmaps, MVP development, and the Lean Startup method. Johann, the PM instructor, showed the nine
of us in the class the value of utilizing every single minute of the day, and inspired us to do higher
quality work than any of us thought possible. We all adored Johann."

— Kyra Perry on PM teacher, Johann, iX '17

What kind of learning environment does iX offer?

We believe in creating a learning environment that encourages active learning, positive thinking, and
collaborative work. Courses are a combination of traditional classes, group projects, and independent
exercises. We focus on helping students work together to produce portfolio projects, which are tangible projects
that have applications in the real world.

What is my class schedule?

During the first two weeks of the six-week course a typical weekday features one 4-hour class, followed by a series of projects and exercises that take 3-5 hours to complete. The final four weeks of the program consists of a course and internship blend. You will spend three weekdays at your internship company, while the other two days will feature a 4-hour class, with internship support from our teaching team.

iXperience's courses are intense, but we strive to ensure students have ample time to explore the city and
culture around them. Our teaching staff adapts to each class and ensures your work load is always immersive
enough to be interesting while still being manageable.

What if I’m struggling during the course?

The iX curriculum is designed to push you from day one, so we fully expect that you will encounter lots of
questions and even experience some difficulties along the way— that’s okay! We have several teaching assistants
on duty to answer your questions and help you with difficult material. Additionally, the teaching
staff organize extra workshops each week to revise complex material. The topics covered in these workshops is
set by the students based on their needs.

If you come ready to work hard, we will put in all the time and energy you need to achieve incredible
results.

Read this inspiring article on
our blog written by iX 2018 alum, Letícia Guimarães, about her challenging but rewarding experience learning to
code at iX.

Do I need any experience to do any of the courses?

You don't need any prior experience to take our courses. The great thing about iXperience is that the diverse range of courses gives you the opportunity to try out skills and interests that you may otherwise not be exposed to. We do send pre-course work to accepted students prior to the program, to help you become familiar with the course content and level of learning that happens here at iXperience.

The pre-course work will comprise of 20 – 30 hours (this depends largely on your pace) of self-taught material. There's nothing super difficult about it, so don't stress! It's merely there to level the playing field and to ensure insure that everyone gets the fundamental principles under their belt. We want to hit the ground running in your first week.

Practical Experience

What will I be doing during the practical experience component?

During your four-week learning/practical experience blend, you will have the opportunity to apply and develop your skills in the real world by working on a project, with continued support from our teaching team.

In order to ensure strong integration of teaching and practical deliverables, two days a week will be spent in the classroom learning new concepts and reviewing progress against those deliverables. This provides an exciting opportunity to positively impact a company, with the support you need to ensure maximum success.

Internship projects are structured by the respective partner firms in collaboration with your teaching teams to ensure that the skills you learn in the classroom are the skills you’ll need in the company where you’re placed. Projects may vary from company to company and from year to year, but they’re all designed to challenge our students and help them to grow.

Here's what the experience is like:

Do I have to complete an iX course in order to do the practical experience component?

Our 6-week blended learning program is designed in such a way that the course and practical component are entirely integrated throughout the 6 weeks. It is not possible to create value for a company without first having the skills taught in the classroom.

How do I get placed into a company?

Before the start of the program, the teaching team will work closely with our partner companies to structure projects that are beneficial to both the students and company. These projects are structured according to the course curriculum and student outcomes.

Students are placed with a company by their teaching staff, who will take into consideration each student’s studies, past experience, interests, career goals, project preferences, and skillset, as demonstrated throughout the course. Your performance in class and commitment to learning will have a direct impact on your placement.

*Please note the placement process may differ from course to course depending on the instructor.

What companies does iXperience work with?

We've partnered with dozens of companies, ranging from local startups, medium sized enterprises, international firms and NGOs.

Company partners vary from year to year, course to course, and from city to city. Students are introduced to their options upon arrival.

How will I get to work each day?

Students are expected to make use of the great public transport system to get to their companies, unless otherwise stated.

Is the practical experience paid?

The experience are unpaid, but are designed to add immense value to your learning experience and resume. Companies we've worked with in the past include Accenture, Barclays Aliens, Soundcloud, and Travelstart to name a few.

Our students also have an unusually high level of involvement. Students are given a lot of responsibility - they're expected to use their new knowledge to produce real, tangible results from their projects. This kind of experience is absolutely invaluable.

At the end of the day, iXperience is an investment in your future, above all else. It's not just about the work experience you get. It's also about integrating yourself into a global network of other driven, innovative young people, and developing a mentality that will continue to push you towards success long after you complete the iXperience Program. This is why our alumni have gone on to work at companies like Bain, Facebook, Apple, Morgan Stanley, Google, etc.

What if I don’t like my placement?

As your experience is a learning/working blend, there will be constant communication channels available to all students. Mentors, teaching staff, and the iX team are all on hand, ready to help resolve any issues as they arise in a way that encourages growth and satisfaction for both students and company partners.

We work closely with both the students and our partner companies to provide an immersive real-world experience. We value our partner relationships, and look to strengthen these bonds by trying to solve a problem rather than running away from it.

Can I switch companies in the middle?

Due to the time limitation of the program, and because our partner companies structure projects accordingly, students are unable to switch placements halfway through.

Will I be supported during my work experience?

Absolutely. This is what makes iXperience totally unique. For two days of each week, you’ll spend time back in the classroom with your teaching team, ensuring that you’re able to meet your deliverables and building on the skills you’ve acquired.

What are my working hours during the practical experience?

Your working hours are dependent on your company and their operating principles. Some companies expect students to work in office for the standard eight hours a day, while others encourage off-site work.

What are some of the biggest challenges faced during the practical experience component?

Starting a new work experience is a challenge in itself. The first couple of days are always hard when trying to find your feet in a unfamiliar environment.

Some of the challenges past students have faced are: receiving a lot of information to synthesize, having to learn new tools to get portions of your project done, receiving an open ended project outline with little background information, minimal communication with your manager, and figuring out the best way to distribute the workload over such a short period.

Remember, challenges create the best learning experience. Knowing how to overcome challenges in the workplace makes you a more valuable employee and prepares you well to have a successful career.

The professional development team are devoted to supporting you through any challenges you may encounter to ensure you have the support needed to overcome your challenges.

Will the practical experience vary from company to company?

Yes, practical projects will vary from company to company, according to their needs and client requests at the time.

This not only provides an exciting opportunity to positively impact a company by exercising what you have learned, but also to gain work experience in an area that interests you. We give you exposure to a variety of different companies, so you're sure to find work that aligns with your abilities, skill set and career goals.

To get the most value out of the students, we encourage companies to structure projects around the relevant curriculum outline as well as the student outcomes/abilities document. This guarantees that projects match the skillsets of students, meet the desired project standards and are completed on time.

That being said, this is the real world and every experience will be structured in a different way based on how the company operates.

Financial Aid

How does financial aid at iXperience work?

iXperience has a need-blind admissions policy, which means we don't consider an applicant's financial situation when making their admissions decision. If you indicate that you'll be applying for aid in the application, you'll have the opportunity to fill out a separate financial aid application after you submit. We grant aid based on an applicant's demonstrated need, which is calculated based on their family income and a variety of other factors.

If your university has a partnership with iXperience, you will need to apply for financial aid through the university study abroad office, if you are not automatically considered.

If we are not in a financial aid partnership with your university, you may apply for aid through iXperience. Do note that if at a later date, a financial aid partnership is established between iXperience and your university, we may revoke aid granted as you then qualify with your university study abroad office.

Keep in mind, that if your deposit has been paid, your spot in the program is secured, regardless of wether your financial aid decision has been released. All financial aid decisions should be released by April 15, 2019.

Should I apply if my parents household income is above $100,000?

There is no official income cut-off for financial aid eligibility. Since eligibility for need-based financial aid is determined by many factors, including the family’s income, family size and number of children in college, we encourage you to apply if you are concerned about your ability to pay.

What does family household income include?

Family income includes both taxed and untaxed income. Total income is based on the Adjusted Gross Income listed on the federal tax return plus all untaxed income (i.e., tax-deferred pension contributions, social security benefits, child support received, tax exempt interest). In cases of divorced or separated families, the incomes from both parents are considered in determining total family income.

Will an additional outside scholarship affect my award?

Yes, additional scholarships may affect the award given to you by iXperience. We will ask you to disclose any other awards you've received before we grant your aid.

I don't think I qualify for aid, but I'm self-funding my education! Can I still apply for financial aid?

Yes, you need to speak to the iXperience admissions department for possible financial aid assistance. You can send us a mail at hello@ixperience.co or chat with us using the speech bubble below.

How will my financial aid be disbursed?

If you are awarded financial aid, it will be deducted from your overall program fee.

Do you offer full scholarships?

Unfortunately, we do not offer full scholarships. Our current scholarship structure allows us to provide a greater degree of inclusivity than if we were to offer fewer, full scholarships.

If you're a student, you might also be able to receive funding from your university even if we are not currently in a financial aid partnership. Past students have managed to secure some form of subsidisation simply by approaching their faculty head, study abroad office, or career advisor. We suggest you take the plunge and find out if it would be feasible; we'll provide you with all the documentation you'll need for this.

Where can I look for additional scholarships?

If you're looking for additional funding and you're a student, we'd suggest reaching out to your university. Although we are an external program, some of our past students have secured some form of subsidization from their faculty heads. We'd suggest you take the plunge and find out if it would be feasible; we'll provide you with all the documentation you'll need for this. We've had a few students who, through their own efforts, managed to secure complete funding for the program!

City-specific information

Do I need a visa before I arrive in Germany?

It depends. If you come from a visa exempt country (please check online), then you won't need to apply for a Schengen visitor visa beforehand. If you come from a non-exempt country, then you will need to apply for a Schengen visitor visa at your closest German Embassy.

How safe is Berlin?

At iXperience, our primary focus is on your safety and well-being. Berlin, like many European capitals, is quite safe. The biggest risks are pickpockets and scammers. Though people use public transport and walk around at night, you should be careful to avoid dodgy areas.

In all of our locations, students are introduced to our health and safety protocols by attending a compulsory orientation session hosted by the iX operations and safety teams in the first week. Additionally, iX staff members are on call 24 hours a day to assist students if necessary. iX also encourages students to take responsibility for their own safety by being vigilant and taking precautions, as they would in any foreign place.

How does rooming work?

iX is all about community, and expanding your social networks is a significant part of what makes our programs so unique. Because of this, iX will handle your rooming placement in gender-specific rooms.

Are meals included?

You will have to cover your own breakfast, lunch and dinner. But don’t stress! There are amazing restaurants all over the city, many within walking distance. The price of groceries in Berlin is also about the same as in America.

How does daily transport work?

Students can purchase daily, weekly, or even monthly public transport passes with ease, allowing you access to a network of trams, trains and buses that connect you to the greater city, including your classes and internships. Transport for iX-official weekend excursions will be arranged by us.

How much spending money should I bring for the time I'll be in Berlin?

Germany uses the Euro, but is still cheaper than many other European countries. Living in Berlin will be a lot like living in a typical US city. Your only unavoidable expenses are meals and laundry. You can expect to pay between $10 for breakfast or lunch, and $10-20 for dinner, depending on your choice of dining. You can expect to spend $40+, just like you would in America, for nice dinners out with drinks. If you are unsure of where to get food on a budget, we are more than happy to give you a few recommendations!

We also encourage students to partake in additional excursions and activities, which may increase costs.

What’s the weather like in Berlin during the program?

It's the height of summer during the program, but Berlin summer is quite mild, with highs in the mid 70s. At night, it can get a bit chilly, so bring some warmer gear. The summer is also the rainy season, so some rain gear is highly recommended.

Do I need vaccinations?

No vaccinations are required for your trip to Germany. You can learn more on the CDC website here.

How good are the medical facilities?

As with most developed European countries, healthcare is quite sophisticated. Private care will be more than sufficient for most health issues, and won't cost too much.

Do I need travel medical insurance?

It is compulsory for all students to have travel medical insurance before attending iXperience. Fortunately, through our affiliation with UVA, iXperience has partnered with Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) as the dedicated provider for all students, providing comprehensive cover for the duration of their stay with us at a significantly reduced cost.

Do I need a visa before I arrive in South Africa?

Yes, you'll need an endorsed visitor visa. If you come from a visa exempt country (please check online), then you won't need to apply beforehand. If you come from a non-exempt country, then you will need to apply for an endorsed visitor visa at your closest South African Embassy. Please check your student portal for further information.

How safe is Cape Town?

At iXperience, our primary focus is on your safety and well-being. Our current locations in Cape Town are the most metropolitan areas of the city, which makes for a unique, modern, and fun experience without compromising on safety.

In all of our locations, students are introduced to our health and safety protocols by attending a compulsory orientation session hosted by the iX operations and safety teams in the first week. Additionally, iX staff members are on call 24 hours a day to assist students if necessary. iX also encourages students to take responsibility for their own safety by being vigilant and taking precautions, as they would in any foreign place.

My parents are nervous to send me to South Africa. What should I tell them?

Over the last few summers, several parents flew over to Cape Town and visited their sons and daughters who were attending iXperience. We interviewed these parents while they were visiting iX and created a short video. This video is the perfect way to reassure your parents if they are concerned, or click here to view our Parents page.

What is the accommodation like?

At iXperience we strive to partner with safe, upmarket accommodation providers in trendy locations. Previous locations included Camps Bay, Green Point, and Sea Point. Each apartment is equipped with a kitchenette, which includes a microwave, kettle, mini fridge and other simple essentials to make your stay comfier.

How does rooming work?

Rooming is done on a first come, first serve basis and applying and paying your deposit allows you to rank your preference of room category. The earlier you do this, the greater the chance you will have of being placed in your first choice room.

Are meals included?

You will have to cover your own breakfast, lunch and dinner. But don’t stress! You’ll have a lot of restaurant options available within walking distance of class and the iX Village.

What is Cape Town cuisine like?

Cape Town boasts a wide variety of restaurants — one only has to take a stroll down Bree Street or Kloof Street to see the eclectic mix of foods from around the world. Local cuisine is influenced by Indian, Southern African, and European foods. If students are lucky, they may find their way to a home-cooked meal!

How does daily transport work?

Getting to class
Transport to and from the iX classrooms is handled exclusively through a reputable transport firm, meaning safe and convenient transport daily.

Around the iX Village
The iX Village is located within walking distance of grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, sports facilities, and beaches.

Excursions
Transport for iX-official weekend excursions will be fully arranged by us.

During the internship
The internships vary in location. Some might be within walking distance while others require transport at your own cost. Once your internship is finalized we will help you organize the logistics.

Everywhere else
Uber is by far the easiest way to get around town: it's safe, available everywhere, and far cheaper than in America. Cape Town also has a world-class public transport system: the MyCiti Bus Network is a safe and affordable way to navigate to certain parts of the city.

Is there a gym I can use?

There are gyms within walking distance of the iX classrooms, most with monthly membership plans. They are fully equipped with treadmills, weight machines, yoga studios, aerobics classes, and more.

How much spending money should I bring for the time I'll be in Cape Town?

South Africa is relatively cheap for foreign visitors due to the strength of the US Dollar against the South African Rand. Living in Cape Town can be “cheap” but not free. Your only unavoidable expenses are meals and laundry. You can expect to pay between $5-$7 for breakfast and lunch, and $7-$15 for dinner, depending on your choice of dining. If you are unsure of where to get food on a budget, we are more than happy to give you a few recommendations!

We also encourage students to partake in additional excursions and activities, which may increase costs.

What’s the weather like in Cape Town during the program?

A good Capetonian winter (remember, it's the southern hemisphere!) has sunshine, wind, rain and clouds - with surprising highs and lows in between. However, these are the facts: the average high temperature during winter is 63°F with a minimum temperature of 47°F degrees in June, July and August. We'd recommend bringing 1 or 2 jackets, long pants, and hoodies just to be safe :)

Do I need vaccinations?

No vaccinations are required for your trip to Cape Town (you can read more about this here).

Vaccinations really are just precautionary. Keep in mind that as a developing country, South Africa has a vast contrast between the infrastructure and living conditions around the country. International vaccination recommendations are generally reflective of the high-risk areas, and so tend be highly exaggerated when taking into account that you'll be staying in Cape Town, one of the most modern, developed cities in the country.

At the end of the day, the decision is totally up to you, but we do feel it necessary to remind you that Cape Town is not reflective of the entire country, and that the CDC's recommendations are in no way mandatory. If there was a real threat, the shots would be required.

How good are the medical facilities?

Medical facilities in cities and larger towns are world-class, offering specialist services by highly skilled professionals. Doctors are well trained and must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Pharmacies are well stocked, and equivalents to most international medicines are available. Pharmacists may not dispense Schedule 3 drugs and up without a prescription, so visitors on chronic medication should carry their own prescription.

Do I need travel medical insurance?

It is compulsory for all students to have travel medical insurance before attending iXperience. Fortunately, through our affiliation with UVA, iXperience has partnered with Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) as the dedicated provider for all students, providing comprehensive cover for the duration of their stay with us at a significantly reduced cost.

Do I need a visa before I arrive in Portugal?

It depends. If you come from a visa exempt country (please check online), then you won't need a Schengen visitor visa beforehand. If you come from a non-exempt country, then you will need to apply for a Schengen visitor visa at your closest Portuguese Embassy.

How safe is Lisbon?

At iXperience, our primary focus is on your safety and well-being. Like many European capitals, there are few dangers in Lisbon aside from pickpockets and con artists. People often use public transportation or walk around, even later in the evening.

In all of our locations, students are introduced to our health and safety protocols by attending a compulsory orientation session hosted by the iX operations and safety teams in the first week. Additionally, iX staff members are on call 24 hours a day to assist students if necessary. iX also encourages students to take responsibility for their own safety by being vigilant and taking precautions, as they would in any foreign place.

What is the accommodation like?

You’ll be staying in a beautifully restored and historic building in São Bento – close to tons of cafes, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Bus stops are just a 2-minute walk away while the Metro is just 10 minutes from your door. The building is made up of larger, dorm-style rooms that on average sleep 4-6 people, with large communal spaces to mingle and work, an amazing shared kitchen for cooking and an outdoor area for summer BBQs.

How does rooming work?

Rooming is done on a first come, first serve basis and applying and paying your deposit allows you to rank your preference of room category. The earlier you do this, the greater the chance you will have of being placed in your first choice room.

Are meals included?

You will have to cover your own breakfast, lunch and dinner. But don’t stress! There are amazing restaurants all over the city, many within walking distance. The price of groceries in Lisbon is also drastically lower than in America.

How does daily transport work?

Students can purchase daily, weekly or even monthly public transport passes with ease, allowing you access to a network of trams, trains and buses that connect you to the greater city, including your classes and internships. Transport for iX-official weekend excursions will be arranged by us.

How much spending money should I bring for the time I'll be in Lisbon?

This is really up to you. Portugal is relatively cheap for foreign visitors, despite higher costs in the rest of the Eurozone. Living in Lisbon can be "cheap" but not free. Students lived comfortably spending, on average, $1600 during their 2-month stay. Remember, accommodation and all iXperience excursions are included in your tuition. This amount is also dependant on how many excursions you arrange during your free time, but these usually add up to $300 - $700 in total.

What’s the weather like in Lisbon during the program?

It's the height of summer during the program! Because Lisbon is coastal, it's more moderate than some other parts of Europe, but it's still toasty. You can expect daytime temperatures around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with nighttime temperatures around 60. It'll most likely rain around 5 days every month. So basically, paradise!

Do I need vaccinations?

No vaccinations are required for your trip to Lisbon. You can learn more on the CDC website here.

How good are the medical facilities?

The Portuguese healthcare system was ranked as 12th best in the world in a World Health Organization report. Private care will be more than sufficient for most health issues, and won't cost too much.

Do I need travel medical insurance?

It is compulsory for all students to have travel medical insurance before attending iXperience. Fortunately, through our affiliation with UVA, iXperience has partnered with Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) as the dedicated provider for all students, providing comprehensive cover for the duration of their stay with us at a significantly reduced cost.

Do I need a visa before I arrive in Tel Aviv?

It depends. If you come from a visa exempt country (please check online), then you won't need to apply for a visitor visa beforehand. If you come from a non-exempt country, then you will need to apply for a visitor's visa in advance of your arrival.

How safe is Tel Aviv?

Tel Aviv is described by Lonely Planet as a "remarkably safe city". While there been past incidences of civil unrest, the city is largely immune to these threats. The Government of Israel makes considerable efforts to ensure security, particularly in areas where foreigners frequently travel - every year, hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens visit Israel for study, tourism, and business without incident. Israel’s criminal incident rate per capita is lower than in many major cities in the U.S although reports of petty theft are common, and visitors are advised to avoid leaving valuables unattended in vehicles and public places.

At iXperience, in all of our locations, students are introduced to our health and safety protocols by attending a compulsory orientation session hosted by the iX operations and safety teams in the first week. Additionally, iX staff members are on call 24 hours a day to assist students if necessary. iX also encourages students to take responsibility for their own safety by being vigilant and taking precautions, as they would in any foreign place.

Why can I not earn credit if I attend the program in Tel Aviv?

Due to government restrictions regulations, iXperience cannot offer academic credit for its program in Israel. The structure of the program and course content of the available courses will be similar to those in our other cities, except that your course will have no affiliation with the University of Virginia. In addition, the liberal arts components from the other cities will be excluded.

What is the accommodation like?

Students will be staying at the international award-winning Abraham Hostel. It is located just off Rothschild Avenue and arguably the trendiest and coolest area in Tel Aviv. Abraham’s boasts spacious, dorm-style living (4-6 students per room) with an communal area, kitchen, and one of the coolest rooftop chill-out spots in the city. It is a real gem.

How does rooming work?

iX is all about community, and expanding your social networks is a significant part of what makes our programs so unique. Because of this, iX will handle your rooming placement in gender-specific rooms.

Are meals included?

You will have to cover your own breakfast, lunch and dinner. But don’t stress! There are amazing restaurants and cafes all over the city, many within walking distance. The price of groceries varies, but you can pick up some amazing produce at the local markets, relatively inexpensively.

How does daily transport work?

Tel Aviv has one of the most robust networks of public transport in the world. From renting electric scooters and bicycles to catching the bus or using Gett (a local version of Uber), there is a solution for every preference and budget that will allow you to navigate the city or get to class and your internship.

How much spending money should I bring for the time I'll be in Tel Aviv?

Cost of living in Israel is comparable to the US. Your only unavoidable expenses are meals, transport, and laundry. You can expect to pay between $10 for breakfast or lunch, and $20-40 for dinner, depending on your choice of dining. You can expect to spend $40+, just like you would in America, for nice dinners out with drinks. If you are unsure of where to get food on a budget, we are more than happy to give you a few recommendations!

We also encourage students to partake in additional excursions and activities, which may increase costs.

What’s the weather like in Tel Aviv during the program?

Tel Aviv has awesome, sunny weather, with a Mediterranean climate that varies between 70-77 degrees from day to day. T-shirts, shorts and cool, loose fitting clothing is essential, as are swimming costumes.

Do I need vaccinations?

No vaccinations are required. However, please check the CDC website here for recommendations.

How good are the medical facilities?

Israel has one of the most technologically advanced and highest-quality healthcare systems in the world. Hospitals in Israel are equipped with modern facilities and high-quality medical technology. Medical personnel are very well-trained and generally speak English. You won’t have trouble should you need medical assistance, but please remember to check in with your travel medical insurance provider before you leave.

Do I need travel medical insurance?

It is compulsory for all students to have arranged travel medical insurance before attending iXperience. Fortunately, your university health insurance will often cover international travel, and independent insurance schemes are quite affordable.

We recommend chatting to your medical service provider about the process of taking out travel medical insurance that guarantees that you will be covered for any emergency while in Israel. Please note that this is a step that you will have to complete on your iXperience student portal.

I dove off the deep end into the new world I've been wanting to enter forever.